Royal Canadian Legion

The Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League was formed in 1925. The St. Paul Branch #100 was granted its charter in 1930. A.J Talbourdet, who served with distinction on the battlefields of France in WW I, was instrumental in organizing the branch and was elected as the first president. Meetings were held at various locations until a home was secured in 1942 in the Elite Theatre building, which was later purchased. The “Legion Hall” would become a main street landmark and was the heart of both Legion and community life. In December of 1960, the title “Royal” was granted by the Queen, to become the Royal Canadian Legion. To commemorate 75 years of service in St. Paul and the 60th anniversary of the end of WW II, in the national Year of the Veteran, on May 7, 2005, Branch #100 opened the doors at its new building and location. The Legion’s commitment to the remembrance of those who made sacrifices for peace and freedom remains as valid today as it was in 1930.